Next Stop, Greenwich Village (1976)

Antonio Fargas is the gay best friend in the 1976 film NEXT STOP, GREENWICH VILLAGE; a semi-autobiographical film from writer/director/producer Paul Mazursky, based on his experiences in his twenties seeking independence and a career as an actor.

Set in 1953, the film follows a young Jewish man named Larry Lapinsky (Lenny Baker) who leaves his parent’s home in Brooklyn to pursue acting. He moves to Greenwich Village where he spends time in acting classes, auditions, and with a close-knit group of eccentric friends. One of these friends is Bernstein (Antonio Fargas), a Black gay man who is very open about his interest in men.

Our introduction to Bernstein is when Larry excitedly introduces his girlfriend Sarah (Ellen Greene) to him in a bar. Bernstein kisses her hand and openly talks about being in love with the Norwegian sailor sitting next to him. Nobody reacts negatively to this proclamation, nor do they bat an eye when Bernstein later talks about being in love with his latest “trick” or “trade.”

The last time we see Bernstein in the film he is emotionally distraught after a friend’s death. He is hiding under a blanket and being comforted by his friends. When he comes out from under the covers he also reveals his true, unembellished self and is completely supported by his chosen family.

NEXT STOP, GREENWICH VILLAGE

1976. USA.

Director: Paul Mazursky

Screenplay: Paul Mazursky

Starring: Lenny Baker, Ellen Greene, Shelley Winters, Antonio Fargas, Lois Smith, Christopher Walken, Mike Kellin, Lou Jacobi, Dori Brenner and Jeff Goldblum

You can find NEXT STOP, GREENWICH VILLAGE streaming for free on YouTube